Dick's Sporting Goods to open Batavia store next week

Dick’s Sporting Goods Inc. is opening a store in Batavia. The new site marks the company’s 37th store within New York and No. 548 nationally.

The store officially opens next Friday, kicking off a three-day grand opening.

Former Buffalo Bills running back Thurman Thomas is slated to make an appearance at the new store from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Nov. 2. Thomas scored 88 touchdowns and ran for more than 12,000 yards during his career in the NFL, which earned him induction in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Beginning at 8 a.m. 350 wristbands will be distributed to the first customers, their ticket to an autograph from Thomas.

The company will provide giveaways ranging from gift cards to T-shirts, the company said.

"We look forward to opening our new Dicks’s Sporting Goods in Batavia and becoming part of the community," said Lauren Hobart, senior vice president and chief marketing officer.